TikTok users love to go crazy over a good snack. Cucumbers have become trendy, spicy pickled garlic has been trending, and onion stew is currently at its peak. The latest food craze to dominate social media? Dry yogurt. TikTokers talk about its benefits, tell how to make dry yogurt.
ContentWhat is dry yogurt? How to make dry yogurt and do you need it: benefitsDry yogurt vs. regular yogurtHow to make dry yogurt at home
But is dry yogurt “healthy”? And how does it differ from its traditional counterpart? WomanEL offers to figure it out.
What is dry yogurt?
“Dry yogurt” is just a type of labneh—a strained yogurt with a creamy texture that resembles soft feta or ricotta cheese, says nutritionist Aderet Dana Hoch.
“Labneh is popular in Middle Eastern cuisine and is made by straining Greek yogurt to remove the liquid whey. The result is a thick consistency that retains live cultures, a type of good bacteria,” she explains. The longer it’s strained, the thicker the yogurt becomes. This makes it quite versatile for use as a spread or even for forming into dome-shaped balls.”
Traditional labneh is milky white. But because TikTok loves to do whatever it wants, users often add food coloring or paint for a brighter, more festive look, Hoch says. It’s “just for fun,” though, so if a fuchsia-colored ball of dried yogurt appears in your feed, don’t be alarmed.
How to make dry yogurt and do you need it: benefits
According to Hoch, “dry yogurt is a healthy dairy product, rich in protein, healthy fats, calcium, and beneficial probiotics.” Here's a list of the benefits:
- High protein content. Depending on how it's made, dry yogurt can contain up to five grams of protein per ounce. This is very beneficial for maintaining muscle function, controlling blood sugar levels, and keeping you full for longer. It can also have a higher concentration of the macronutrient than traditional yogurt because the water is filtered out, making it a great source of quick protein, adds nutrition expert Claire Raikin.
- It is rich in calcium. Dry yogurt is rich in calcium, which is essential for strong bones, healthy teeth, muscle function, and hormone regulation.
- It is high in probiotics. Probiotics are the good guys when it comes to gut health. They help restore the gut microbiome and improve overall digestion. Dry yogurt, made from Greek yogurt, also preserves live probiotics, which helps maintain regularity and prevent constipation.
- It's so versatile. Whether you spread it on toast, add it to your morning oatmeal, or make a homemade salad dressing, you can enjoy it in a variety of ways. The creamy texture also pairs well with both sweet and savory dishes.
Want to keep your gut healthy? Start eating this food. Researchers have proven its benefits.
Dry Yogurt vs. Plain Yogurt
Dry yogurt can contain more protein and calcium per serving than regular yogurt, thanks to more dense concentration. Plus, it's usually lower in lactose than regular yogurt, which can be easier on digestion, Hoch adds.
However, Hoch recommends skipping the added coloring and leaving the appearance of the dry yogurt the same as the original. Artificial coloring contains poor preservatives and chemicals that may be associated with negative health effects.
“Dry yogurt is also traditionally made by adding salt for preservation and straining the liquid, which can increase the total sodium content,” says Hoch. “Sodium is needed by your body to maintain normal muscle and nerve function. But too much can raise blood pressure and increase your risk of heart disease. So watch your overall intake.”
So is dry yogurt better for you than regular yogurt? Not necessarily, says Raikin. They both have their benefits, so instead of wondering which one is “healthier,” find the one you like best. Or, incorporate both types of yogurt into your diet, along with other fresh, whole foods.
How to make dry yogurt at home
If you want tart creamy snacks, it is quite possible to make dry yogurt yourself. Hoch recommends this recipe:
- Line a sieve with cheesecloth and set it over a large bowl or container.
- Stir a pinch of salt into your favorite Greek yogurt, then pour the mixture over the cheesecloth.
- Tightly roll the cloth so it covers the yogurt, then place a light weight (like a book) on top to force the mixture through the sieve.
- Refrigerate the mixture for 12-24 hours or longer until it reaches the desired consistency.
- Remove the mixture from the cheesecloth and enjoy! Posting on social media is optional.
Social media is also recommending drinking olive oil in the morning to relieve constipation. But does it work?